Teen Team Features

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We design our Earthwatch Teen Expeditions specifically and exclusively for 15- to 18-year-olds. They’re unlike any other experience a teenager can have.

The forests of Coto Brus, Costa Rica are full of wildlife with more than 100 mammal species, 400 species of birds, and 2,000 plant species. But the habitat is undergoing fragmentation and destruction, which has caused 80 percent of the original rich tropical forest to disappear, putting these species at risk.

In recent years, scientists working in the area have noticed a practice of local landowners. Many have begun planting fruiting trees on their properties. Scientists believe these trees might hold the key to improving the resilience of these forest ecosystems as well as restoring the expanse of Costa Rica’s tropical forests.

Work with scientists as you monitor a wide array of monkey species, parrots, toucans, and other tropical birds, and reptiles. While you explore the wealth of biodiversity, help conserve a critical tropical habitat.

When you arrive, the researchers will provide you with information on studying tropical forests and monitoring wildlife. Field work, including training, will begin on Day 2, where you will:

Observe wildlife in fruiting trees:
Identify and record animal species –including tropical birds, monkeys, and reptiles – that are eating the fruits and seeds in the planted trees, as well as their behaviors.

Monitor wildlife.
Work alongside the research team as you walk transects and identify and record tree seedlings and saplings.

Survey for fruiting trees:
At the edges of forests and farm fields, you'll track an abundance of wildlife, including primates and birds, and record their behavior.

Collect seeds from forest and plant in greenhouse:
Gather seeds that have fallen into seed traps so they can be sorted by species; plant seeds that are deemed intact in germination flats and help to maintain them.

In the evenings, you’ll return to the field station for dinner and an optional discussion, film or presentation.

NOTE: Field conditions and research needs can lead to changes in the itinerary and activities. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

The planting of fruiting trees may hold the secret to improving the resilience of forest ecosystems.

Accommodations and Food

Accommodations and Food

Shared cabins at field station

Wireless internet access

Meals prepared by local staff

Teen teams and student groups will bunk at the Wilson House nestled in the station’s botanical gardens. The station includes electricity and wireless internet access in all rooms. Rooms will be shared by 2 or 3 volunteers (student groups may have more per room). Each cabin has a bathroom with conventional toilet and hot shower, as well as a private balcony. Wilson House features a large, sunny common room and shared bathrooms.

Coffee and tea are available throughout the day. Meals are provided by staff at the station and feature Costa Rican cuisine, including rice and beans, eggs, cheese, tortillas, and plantains. Food allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated.